Overview

• Trump plans to issue the order on Friday, with the move reported by The New York Times and Fox News.
• He says the change is meant to recall U.S. victories in World Wars I and II and to project a tougher military posture.
• Secretary of Defense Pete Hegseth has endorsed the shift, arguing the prior approach under President Biden hurt morale and mission focus.
• The department carried the War Department name until shortly after World War II, and current titles and authorities are defined in statute.
• Media coverage and social media reacted immediately, including a mocking post from the Republicans against Trump account.